By Mazi Godson Azu

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Chairman of Chisco Group, Dr. Chidi Anyaegbu, and other prominent Nigerians in the United Kingdom have joined the celebration of veteran entertainer and activist, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charlie Boy, following the launch of his memoir, 999: The Memoir of Charlie Boy, in London.

The event, held at the Grand Empire in London, also witnessed the inauguration of the Charlie Boy Foundation, marking what was described as a new chapter in the life and public engagement of the unconventional Nigerian cultural icon.

Obasanjo, who attended as Special Guest of Honour and Chief Discussant, was among the major personalities at the event, which attracted political figures, business leaders, entertainers, community leaders and members of the Nigerian diaspora.

The former president also joined Dr. Chidi Anyaegbu, MFR, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Chisco Group; Charlie Boy; and his younger brother, George Oputa, Esq., for the official unveiling of the memoir.

The occasion provided an opportunity for Obasanjo and Charlie Boy to reflect on their longstanding relationship, with the former president speaking about his personal regard for the entertainer despite his unconventional public image.

According to reflections shared at the event, Obasanjo said Charlie Boy should not be judged merely by his appearance, music or public persona, noting that there was more to the entertainer than the image he projects publicly.

The interaction between the two men became one of the highlights of the evening, with their conversation touching on personal experiences, family, public life and their longstanding relationship.

The family connection between the former president and the Oputas also featured prominently during the event.

George Oputa, Charlie Boy’s younger brother, recalled Obasanjo’s relationship with their late father, former Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Chukwudifu Oputa.

He particularly referenced Obasanjo’s appointment of the late jurist as Chairman of the Human Rights Violations Investigation Commission, popularly known as the Oputa Panel.

George also recalled Obasanjo’s presence at the funerals of Charlie Boy’s parents and his continued relationship with the Oputa family.

The recollections added a personal dimension to the occasion, highlighting relationships that have continued beyond political office and public prominence.

The formal fundraising for the memoir was led by Dr. Chidi Anyaegbu, who contributed £2,000 as Chief Launcher.

Other contributions announced at the event included £200 from Dr. Chiamaka Anyaegbu, Chief Operating Officer of Chisco Group; £200 from Chief Alex Achiebe; and £100 from Mazi Godson Azu.

The donations provided financial support for the book launch while underscoring the support of members of the Nigerian community for Charlie Boy’s literary and social initiatives.

Internationally recognised musician Dr. Alban was among the special guests at the event. He reportedly travelled to London to demonstrate his support for Charlie Boy, his colleague in the entertainment industry.

The gathering also attracted several prominent members of the Nigerian and African community in the United Kingdom, including Sir Chibuzo Ubochi, Chairman of NIDOE; Chief Alex Achiebe; Dr. Alistair Soyode, Chairman of BEN TV London; Otunba Fadipe of CANUK; Chief Malcolm Benson; Chief Eric Nwadinobi; Adabuzo NdiAbia; Dee Lionesses; Lady Nikky Emenike; Kenny G; Priscilla Nwikpo of BEN TV London; Lady Doyni; Dr. Ms. Wagbara and others.

The event was coordinated with the support of personalities including DJ Abass, Industry Baba, DJ-Media and Heritage TV.

The unveiling of the memoir and foundation provided an opportunity to reflect on Charlie Boy’s decades-long contribution to Nigerian entertainment, popular culture and public discourse.

Known for his distinctive appearance, music, activism and outspoken public commentary, Charlie Boy has remained one of Nigeria’s most recognisable entertainment personalities.

The new memoir is expected to offer readers a more personal account of the experiences, relationships and convictions behind his public persona.

The Charlie Boy Foundation, meanwhile, provides a platform through which his influence can potentially be channelled into organised social initiatives.

The London event therefore brought together different aspects of Charlie Boy’s public journey — entertainment, activism, family, friendship, philanthropy and cultural identity.

The gathering also underscored the role of the Nigerian diaspora in preserving and celebrating the country’s cultural heritage.

The presence of former political leaders, business executives, entertainers, community leaders and professionals demonstrated the diverse networks within the Nigerian community in the United Kingdom.

For the organisers and guests, the occasion represented more than a book launch. It was a celebration of an individual whose unconventional career has generated conversations around creativity, individuality, activism and freedom of expression.

The event also provided an opportunity for Nigerians in the diaspora to reconnect, network and celebrate one of their own.

The launch concluded with congratulations to Charles Oputa on the publication of 999: The Memoir of Charlie Boy and the inauguration of the Charlie Boy Foundation.

The occasion was described by attendees as a celebration of friendship, family, culture and the enduring influence of one of Nigeria’s most distinctive public personalities.